NH Christmas tree industry donates trees for festivities

Monday

Dec 3, 2012 at 3:15 AM

LITCHFIELD -- NH Christmas tree growers will once again donate trees to the state for “official” holiday decorating. It has become a tradition for Granite State Christmas tree growers, through the NH Christmas Tree Promotion Board, to provide trees each year for the State House and the Bridges House (site for numerous official functions) in Concord.

The New Hampshire Christmas Tree Promotion Board conducts industry promotion activities throughout the year. These activities include brochures, advertising, displays and exhibits on behalf of the growers of New Hampshire. The group maintains a website with links to Christmas tree farms across the state: www.nhchristmastrees.com.

This year, the official state holiday trees come from Noel’s Tree Farm in Litchfield. Owned and operated by Paul and Catherine Lemire, Noel’s Tree Farm is a cut your own tree operation, consisting of about nine acres. About 8000 trees make up the plantation which includes Balsam, Fraser, Canaan and Concolor tree varieties. The Lemires sell about 2200 trees each year between trees harvested from their farm and some purchased for resale from other growers. They also sell about 400 wreaths each year, decorated by Catherine and other seasonal staff. The farm is named after Paul’s father who was born on Christmas day and aptly named Noel.

The Lemires planted their first Christmas trees about 20 years ago and have been selling trees for 12 years. They strive to provide a fun, family experience on the farm and have customers returning year after year. The farm offers other seasonal activities on weekends such as free hayrides, hot chocolate, a petting farm, a fire pit where guests can roast marshmallows and the kids can visit with Santa. They also welcome school groups and have offered students the opportunity to learn about different aspects of the farm with activities such as planting Christmas trees and making wreaths. The Lemires are members of the NH/VT Christmas Tree Association and Paul is currently on its Board of Directors.

The New Hampshire Christmas tree industry is valued at close to $4 million annually and includes tree growing operations of all sizes. In addition to trees, other important products from this industry are wreaths, roping and related items. Fresh New Hampshire Christmas trees and Christmas tree products are available at retail outlets throughout the state, and right at the farm. Many operations offer the opportunity to cut your own tree as well as enjoy a hay/sleigh ride, hot mulled cider and or browse holiday craft shops among other seasonal favorites.

For more information about where to get a fresh New Hampshire Christmas tree near you, contact the New Hampshire Dept. of Agriculture, Markets & Food at 271-3788, or www.agriculture.nh.gov or visit the NH Christmas Tree Promotion Board website www.nhchristmastrees.com.